The Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) has taken note of reports circulating on social media and in sections of the media concerning trainees undergoing On-the-Job Training (OJT) in Pune under a Government-sponsored skill development programme.
The Government of Meghalaya considers the safety, dignity and welfare of every trainee to be paramount. Every concern is acted upon promptly, examined objectively and addressed through established procedures. Equally, as a public institution, the Government is duty-bound to communicate on the basis of verified facts rather than speculation.
Immediately upon receiving information regarding the allegations on 1 July 2026, MSSDS directed the concerned Training and Placement Provider (TPP) to contact every trainee, verify their well-being and facilitate the immediate return of any trainee wishing to discontinue the programme, with the Government bearing the full cost of return travel.
Two trainees, including the complainant, opted to return to Meghalaya and arrangements were made without delay. All remaining trainees were independently informed that they could also return at Government expense, but voluntarily chose to continue their OJT and subsequent placement.
Verification was carried out through multiple independent channels, including interactions by the local police, representatives of a Meghalaya-based NGO, National Volunteers Meghalaya in Pune and a separate video conference conducted by MSSDS. Based on these enquiries, no material or testimony has emerged thus far to substantiate the allegations against either the employer or the empanelled TPP.
The trainees continuing with the programme stated that they felt safe, were comfortable with the training environment and wished to complete their OJT. They also expressed concern that unverified allegations had adversely affected the credibility of their batch and could discourage employers from recruiting youth from Meghalaya. They further stated that the complainant had previously been counselled on routine workplace protocols, including adherence to training discipline.
The complainant had enrolled in the Senior Beauty & Spa Therapist course after accepting an offer letter that clearly specified the job role, terms and conditions. The programme is fully Government-sponsored, covering training, travel, accommodation and a monthly stipend of ₹4,000 during OJT. All relevant records have been shared with the concerned authorities for independent examination.
MSSDS follows a structured placement framework under which empanelled TPPs are required to undertake due diligence of employers. Candidates receive counselling and orientation at every stage—from enrolment and training to pre-departure—so that they fully understand the nature of employment, remuneration and workplace expectations before accepting placement.
The Beauty & Wellness sector is a recognised professional industry offering skilled, dignified and remunerative careers with opportunities for long-term growth. The Government is conscious that unverified narratives can undermine confidence in skill development programmes, discourage reputed employers from partnering with Meghalaya and ultimately deprive deserving youth and their families of valuable employment opportunities.
The matter remains under examination. If any violation by any stakeholder is established through due process, the Government will take the strictest action available under law and the applicable contractual framework. The Government of Meghalaya remains committed to safe migration, ethical recruitment, transparent placement processes and evidence-based decision-making in the best interests of the youth of the State.